Apartheid Introduction
Apartheid in South Africa was a legalized system of racial segregation enforced from 1948 to 1994. It aimed to protect white minority rule and suppress non-white majorities through discriminatory laws and practices.
Early Resistance Movements
Apartheid faced resistance from its inception. The African National Congress (ANC) led early efforts, with figures like Albertina Sisulu and Walter Sisulu playing pivotal but often overshadowed roles alongside Nelson Mandela.
Sharpville Massacre Impact
The 1960 Sharpeville Massacre was a turning point. Police killed 69 peaceful protesters, leading to international condemnation and the first UN sanctions against South Africa, gradually isolating the apartheid regime globally.
Economic Pressures Escalate
In the 1980s, economic sanctions and divestments by countries and corporations intensified. Internal unrest combined with external pressures severely weakened the apartheid economy, forcing the government to consider reforms.
Secret Talks Begin
Unknown to many, secret talks between the apartheid government and Nelson Mandela began in the 1980s. These negotiations, initially clandestine, laid the groundwork for the eventual dismantling of apartheid.
Apartheid's Legal End
Apartheid legislation was systematically repealed between 1990 and 1991. The comprehensive dismantlement included the release of political prisoners and unbanning of liberation movements, leading to multi-racial democratic elections in 1994.
Truth and Reconciliation
Post-apartheid, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), led by Archbishop Desmond Tutu, was established to uncover human rights abuses and heal the nation. It granted amnesty in exchange for truth, a controversial but critical step towards reconciliation.
When did apartheid enforcement begin?
1994
1948
1960
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